North Peace Leisure Pool replacement now driven by City of Fort St. John

The City of Fort St. John takes the leadership role for a new aquatics facility after the PRRD dissolves North Peace Leisure Facility Replacement Steering Committee (NPLFRSC) and transfers project groundwork to the City.

Through the NPLFRSC, the City of Fort St. John has collaborated with the District of Taylor and the Peace River Regional District (PRRD) since 2018, discussing replacement options for the North Peace Leisure Pool.

“We’ve worked collaboratively with the City of Fort St. John and District of Taylor for several years on this project,” said Leonard Hiebert, Board Chair of the PRRD. “The groundwork that has already been completed provides a solid foundation for the municipality to build on. The PRRD will share all project information with the city in the best interest of the community and the region.”

The North Peace Leisure Pool is owned by the PRRD and operated by the City, and extensive groundwork has already been completed on the project including public engagement, cost estimations, taxation impact and design options according to a release.

It was in July the City decided to give notice of its departure from the Steering Committee reflecting a ‘strategic shift’, which would allow the City to lead the charge and take a more leadership role in replacing the North Peace Leisure Pool.

“We remain fully committed to delivering a modern, inclusive, and accessible aquatic facility that meets the evolving needs of our community,” said Mayor Lilia Hansen. “This change enables us to focus our efforts and resources on moving the project forward, while continuing to provide excellent recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike.”

The City will be exploring all partnership and funding opportunities while reviewing facility amenity options and continuing to build on previous public engagement efforts.